The move comes against a rising tide of violence and abuse towards staff consistent with an increase with a trend against the NHS.

Mid Cheshire Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust its programme earlier this month.

Dr Andy Heeps, chief executive at the trust, said: ‘Our colleagues dedicate their lives to caring for others, and it is unacceptable that anyone is subjected to violence, abuse or harassment. The safety and wellbeing of our people is fundamental to delivering excellent care, and any act of abuse or harassment has no place in our hospitals.'

UHSussex reported nearly 2,000 incidents of verbal and physical abuse from patients and visitors in the past year.

Body-worn cameras and knife amnesty bins are some of the safety measures already proving effective in reducing risk.

The trust is also making it easier for colleagues to report incidents quickly and confidently and a new formal process is also being rolled out warning patients or visitors when behaviour becomes unacceptable and they can no longer attend the hospital, unless in emergencies.